Social Security Benefits May Decrease by 2034. Here Are 5 Ways to Help Fill the Income Gap

The economic impact of COVID-19 has been felt around the world. And, unfortunately for many pre-retirees, it could potentially impact your Social Security benefits as well. A new 2021 report indicates that a 78% cut to promised Social Security benefits will occur by 2034 if Congress does not address funding. While long-term funding for Social Security has been a concern for a while now, it appears that a snowball effect caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has shortened the timeline. Covid-19 catalyzed an economic recession in early 2020, with a plunge in employment rates ― meaning a drop in payroll taxes as well.

In December 2020, the average monthly benefit for a retired individual receiving Social Security was $1,544. Even with benefits at full funding, you may not be able to meet your financial needs in retirement on Social Security alone. For those who have the opportunity to plan and prepare, Social Security doesn't have to be their only source of retirement income. There are a few options to consider when preparing to supplement the difference between what you earn in Social Security benefits and what you need to thrive in retirement.

Option #1: Individual Retirement Accounts

There are two types of Individual Retirement Accounts, or IRAs, to choose from ― traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs. If you’ve had these accounts set up for some time and made contributions regularly, then the potential growth of these accounts could make up for Social Security reductions. However, there are a few things about your IRAs to consider toward retirement.

Traditional IRAs

Your contributions to a traditional IRA may be fully or partially deductible, depending on your circumstances. In most cases, once you reach age 72, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your IRA. Withdrawals from traditional IRAs are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59 1/2, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. You may continue to contribute to a traditional IRA past age 70 1/2 as long as you meet the earned-income requirement.

Roth IRAs

Roth IRAs differ from traditional IRAs because contributions are made with after-tax dollars. This means that Roth IRA contributions do not lower your yearly taxable income, but withdrawals made in retirement are tax-free.

To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59 1/2. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner’s death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals. High-income taxpayers may have a lower contribution cap or cannot contribute to a Roth IRA at all, depending on their yearly income and tax-filing status.

Option #2: Defined Contribution Plans

If your employer offers a defined contribution plan such as a 401(k), 403(b), or 457 plan, the accumulated income in these accounts could supplement Social Security, especially if this amount has had time to grow.

Be aware that distributions from a defined contribution plan are taxed as ordinary income unless they are Roth 401(k) or 403(b) accounts. Individuals must take minimum distributions at age 72, and any distributions before age 59 1/2 are subject to a 10% tax penalty.

Option #3: Defined Benefit Plans

Though not as common as they used to be, pensions are a common type of defined benefit plan. Benefits established by an employer take into account work history and salary to determine the benefit amount.

Option #4: Personal Savings

Your savings could be used to help make up the difference in Social Security benefits. Funds tucked away in a savings account may be used to purchase more long-term options, such as an annuity. What works best for each individual will depend on their situation. If your savings will become your main source of Social Security supplementation, then consider consulting a financial advisor who can help you determine a long-term, more sustainable solution.

Option #5: Continued Employment

Unfortunately for some retirees and pre-retirees, if Social Security does not help make ends meet and the above options are not available or don’t provide enough benefits, then it may be time to consider postponing your retirement. The good news, though, is that working while collecting Social Security could potentially increase your benefit amount.

Having multiple sources of income in retirement is important. But if Social Security is your primary source of income, then a reduction in benefits will certainly be challenging. Using the list above, you can consider your options and prepare accordingly. Remember to consult a financial advisor for more guidance and to receive an approach tailored to your financial situation.

ABOUT ERIC

Erickson Braund is the Founder and Chief Financial Officer at Black Walnut Wealth Management. He is a Certified Financial Planner®️ professional and a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor®️. Eric brings over 20 years of experience working with high net-worth individuals and families, helping them achieve their goals of protecting and growing their wealth for retirement and for generations to come. Because Eric is a CFP®️ professional, he adheres to high ethical standards and engages in at least 30 hours of approved continuing education in the financial industry each year.

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